Greco’s audacious replica SA-550 is waiting for new owner. Made in 1978, the guitar represents the crest of so-called lawsuit period, where solid body and hollow body guitars notably from Greco and Tokai seriously challenged Gibson’s craftsmanship, hence the lawsuits have been filed against the rising Japan brands. Interestingly, the crown emblem on the headstock disappeared from 1979 model, most probably to get around the dispute.

This 1978 model features the trapezoid tailpiece which helps the sound wave from the strings transmit all along the body with rich impression. Later models started adopting the next generation with STP (Stop Tail Piece), so it can be said this guitar comes from the last batch of first generation.

With regard to maintenance and cosmetics, a moderate level of oxidation and minor scratches are negligible in comparison to the binding cracks. A hole punctuated on the left top of body seemingly indicate where the strip pin used to be placed. Discount applied to a keen collector for binding repair. Please also note, the pickups are replaced with EMG H4 and H4A.

Lastly, over the last decade I have owned 10 guitars of the same model SA-550 and I find it rarer to come across this iconic vintage. That said, you wouldn’t want to let go before you see her again in the museum.